If you’re one of the growing number of people enjoying the benefits of CBD oil, capsules, or topical creams, you already know how CBD can support wellbeing and balance. But how exactly does this powerful compound go from plant to bottle?
Most people know CBD comes from hemp—but not many know how it’s extracted. There are several ways to draw CBD from the hemp plant, each with its own pros and cons.
How is CBD made?
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD oil is made by extracting this compound from hemp— a specific variety of cannabis that contains low levels of THC.
For CBD products to be legal in the UK, they must be derived from approved strains of industrial hemp containing less than 0.2% THC and no more than 1mg THC per finished product.
Read more: Hemp vs marijuana
How is CBD extracted?
Extraction is the process of separating the desired CBD compound from the plant material—while removing unwanted cannabinoids such as THC.
This step is crucial: for CBD to be legal and non-psychoactive, THC content must remain below legal limits.
Once extracted, CBD oil is refined through processes such as winterisation (which removes chlorophyll, waxes, and lipids) or distillation (to isolate and purify cannabinoids).
After refinement, the extract is lab tested to confirm purity, potency, and safety before being blended with a carrier oil such as MCT or hemp seed oil.
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5 CBD extraction methods explained
1. CO₂ Extraction
This is the gold standard for CBD extraction—used by Evopure and other premium brands. It uses pressurised carbon dioxide to extract CBD while preserving delicate plant compounds.
- Chamber 1: Pressurised CO₂ is stored.
- Chamber 2: Hemp is exposed to CO₂ in its “supercritical” state—extracting cannabinoids.
- Chamber 3: The mixture separates, leaving CBD oil below and CO₂ gas above.
Pros
- Produces clean, high-quality CBD
- No toxic residue
- Stable and long shelf life
- Precise control over cannabinoid profile
Cons
High equipment cost; contributes to higher retail prices—but worth it for purity and safety.
Read more: Why is CBD oil so expensive?
2. Liquid Solvent Extraction
Before CO₂ became popular, solvents such as ethanol, butane, or propane were used to dissolve plant waxes and release cannabinoids.
Pros
- Quick and inexpensive
- Simple to perform
Cons
Flammable solvents can be hazardous. They may extract chlorophyll (causing a bitter taste) or leave chemical residues if not properly evaporated.
3. Alcohol Extraction
Using ethanol as a solvent is a safer alternative to hydrocarbons. It effectively separates cannabinoids from the plant, then evaporates, leaving behind a full-spectrum extract.
Pros
- Cost-effective and efficient
- Can be done with minimal equipment
- Produces a broad cannabinoid and terpene profile
Cons
Ethanol can also extract chlorophyll, causing bitterness. Residual alcohol may remain, making it unsuitable for those avoiding alcohol (e.g., halal consumers).
Read more: Is CBD oil halal?
4. Olive Oil Extraction
One of the oldest and safest extraction methods. The plant material is first heated (decarboxylation) to activate cannabinoids, then infused into olive oil or another carrier oil.
Pros
Safe, natural, and affordable. Great for small-scale or DIY use.
Cons
Low CBD concentration, short shelf life, and not suitable for large-scale production.
5. Steam Distillation
This traditional method passes steam through hemp to separate cannabinoids and essential oils. The vapour is cooled and condensed to yield a CBD-rich oil.
Pros
Non-toxic and solvent-free; no contamination risk.
Cons
Inefficient compared to other methods—requires large amounts of hemp and careful temperature control.
Which CBD extraction method is best?
Each method has pros and cons, but supercritical CO₂ extraction is widely regarded as the best. It produces the cleanest, safest, and most potent CBD extract with precise control over cannabinoid levels.
This is the preferred method for Evopure and other leading UK brands that prioritise quality and safety.
Why are CBD extraction methods important?
The extraction process determines the purity, potency, and safety of your CBD product. Not all CBD oils are created equal—poor extraction can leave contaminants or destroy beneficial compounds.
When choosing a product, always check the Certificate of Analysis (COA) to confirm the extraction method and verify third-party testing.
Read more: CBD benefits
FAQs
What is CO₂ extraction?
A high-tech process using pressurised carbon dioxide to extract cannabinoids without toxic solvents—considered the cleanest and most efficient method.
Is solvent extraction safe?
It can be, if performed correctly—but poor-quality manufacturers may leave behind harmful residues. Always check for third-party lab testing.
Can CBD be extracted at home?
Yes—with methods like olive oil extraction—though the concentration is typically low and the oil perishes quickly.
Does the extraction method affect flavour?
Yes. Methods like alcohol or solvent extraction can pull chlorophyll, giving a bitter taste. CO₂ extraction produces a milder, cleaner flavour.
Why does extraction method affect price?
Premium methods like CO₂ require advanced equipment and expertise, leading to higher production costs—but also cleaner, safer products.
Summary
Understanding how CBD is extracted helps you choose safe, effective, and fairly priced products. While several methods exist, supercritical CO₂ extraction remains the industry gold standard for purity and potency.
